If last year brought more misses than hits, and you find yourself hesitant to embrace the “New Year, New You” mantra, you are not alone. Let’s face it. Going from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season into charging towards goal-getter status for the year in the middle of winter is not ideal. It is particularly difficult if you are in the wake of disappointment at last year’s failed attempts. I am a firm believer in setting goals, so I’m not letting you off the hook, but I am going to give some guidance on how you can take a gentler approach while you ease into accomplishing goals this year.

First, let’s toss the “New Year, New You” phrase. Instead, let’s focus on how to be a BETTER you this year. Let go of any past disappointments, so you can focus on bringing your best self to the game this year. This will look different for each of us depending on our goals and dreams. For me personally, I started some of my goals mid-November because I wanted to get a head start on proving to myself that I could consistently show up, regardless of results. Consistency and less waste are two of my broad goals for the year.

While it is recommended that goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), I’ve heard of many people who have eased up on resolutions and chose to focus on more general goals that allowed them to still maintain focus but alleviate some pressure. You have to choose the best approach for you. This year I have very few specific goals and a couple of goals that are broader ideas. That is what I needed personally after a year of experiencing some disappointments. It has allowed me to still move ahead and work towards worthy goals as I ease back into gaining confidence in setting more SMART goals again.

Whether you are all in and tackling loads of SMART goals or gingerly setting some general goals, this new year isn’t about reinventing yourself. It’s about bringing a better you to the table. The world needs your talents, skills, and abilities. Let your light shine.

XO, Katie